Formula 1 remains committed to completing the 2026 World Championship in the Middle East. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reiterated his confidence that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix will go ahead as planned, with the races scheduled for November 29 and December 6 respectively.
His comments come amid continued uncertainty across the region, where the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, alongside recent missile attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, has raised concerns about the safety of major international sporting events.
Despite the situation, the FIA currently sees no reason to change the championship calendar.
Ben Sulayem Confident Both Races Will Take Place
Speaking to reporters, the FIA president stressed that the safety of drivers, team personnel, officials and spectators remains the governing body’s highest priority.
Ben Sulayem made it clear that the FIA would never approve an event if there were genuine concerns about the safety of those involved.
The Emirati official also referred to his personal experience, noting that his family lives in the United Arab Emirates and that, based on the current circumstances, he does not believe the situation warrants excessive concern.
Although he acknowledged that future developments in the conflict cannot be predicted, Ben Sulayem maintained that the two Grands Prix are expected to proceed as scheduled.
Safety Remains the FIA’s Top Priority
The FIA president emphasised the importance of distinguishing between broader geopolitical tensions and the actual security conditions in the countries hosting the races.
According to Ben Sulayem, decisions must be based on continuous assessments and reliable information rather than speculation or general concerns surrounding the conflict.
The governing body will therefore continue working closely with local authorities and event organisers to ensure that all necessary safety requirements are met.
However, the current confirmation does not amount to an unconditional guarantee. Any significant deterioration in regional security could prompt the FIA and Formula 1 to reassess their plans.
Imola Remains a Potential Backup Venue
Among the alternatives being considered is the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Italy.
The circuit has emerged as a possible replacement venue should either of the remaining Middle Eastern races become impossible to stage.
Asked whether contingency plans were in place, Ben Sulayem confirmed that the FIA was prepared to respond to changing circumstances.
No decision has been announced regarding the relocation or cancellation of either race.
The priority remains to preserve the original calendar, avoiding changes that would create substantial logistical and organisational challenges for teams, suppliers and championship personnel.
The 2026 Season Is Scheduled to End on December 6
Under the current calendar, the championship will conclude with three consecutive race weekends.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled for November 22, followed by the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail on November 29 and the season finale at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit on December 6.
Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali had also recently reaffirmed the championship’s intention to maintain its original schedule.
Ben Sulayem’s latest comments reinforce that position. Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain the designated venues for the final two rounds of the 2026 season, although any future changes will depend on the security situation in the coming weeks.